Looking to find local builders online without getting ripped off?
Finding local builders is a task that feels more like finding a needle in a haystack at times.
But luckily for you, the internet has made it possible to find quality tradespeople in your area easier than ever before.
The Problem
All builders are not created equal. Recent reports show, cowboy builders have ripped off British homeowners to the tune of £14.3 billion over the past five years.
Phew. That’s a ton of cash wasted on dodgy workmanship.
The answer? Knowing how to find local builders online using the right approach.
In this article I’m going to show you…
- Why Finding Builders Online Works
- The Best Places To Search For Local Builders
- How To Vet Builders Before Hiring
- The Red Flags To Look Out For
Why Finding Builders Online Works
Flipping through the local yellow pages or waiting for someone to come to you has all but been replaced by the online search.
Searching for local builders online now gives you access to reviews, portfolio images and verified trade credentials all in the same place.
Think about it…
You can review multiple builders in minutes, read actual customer experiences and check out their previous work. All this can be done at the click of a button.
So what’s more convenient than searching for your next builder online while still sat on your sofa? (Amen!)
The key to finding the right local builder is knowing where to look.
Different platforms will give you access to a variety of local builders with different specialities, pricing and quality levels.
This allows you to find the best match for your individual project needs.
The Best Places To Search For Local Builders
Ok great. Now you know why finding builders online works, where exactly should you look?
Below are the best online platforms that consistently give great results. Neat right? Let’s break each one down…
Builder Comparison Websites
Builder comparison websites will connect you with a variety of pre-screened and verified tradespeople.
One of the main advantages here is that they do the hard work for you. They pre-screen all the builders, collect their reviews and put their qualifications under the microscope.
The best part is that…
Most of these websites allow you to post your job online and receive multiple quotes from verified builders. This not only saves you time, but also helps you compare prices without having to make dozens of phone calls.
Google Search
One of the most effective yet overlooked places to find local builders online is using your trusty old search engine.
A simple “Builders near me” search returns local builders and results accompanied by Google reviews.
Pay close attention to the star ratings but also take the time to read the actual review content. Check this quick example below:
A builder with a 4.5 star rating and 200 reviews is likely to be more trustworthy than a builder with a 5 star rating but only 3 reviews
Facebook Groups
Local Facebook Groups can be a treasure trove of recommendations.
Real people with real experiences are often keen to share their insights. You can ask direct questions and receive honest feedback from neighbours who have recently had local builders work on their own properties.
Trade Association Directories
Trade bodies such as the Federation of Master Builders have directories of vetted members.
Builders who are members have to meet certain standards and sign up to codes of conduct. This can be another level of protection for your home improvement project.
How To Vet Builders Before Hiring
Finding builders online is step one.
Now you must vet the good from the bad.
Here’s how:
Check Online Reviews
Research has shown that a massive 91% of homeowners use online reviews before picking their contractors. There’s a reason for that.
Reviews show you what it’s actually like to work with a builder. Look for common themes in the feedback. Are multiple customers reporting the same issue?
If so, it’s a warning sign.
Request Multiple Quotes
Always get multiple written quotes for your project.
This is the best way to get a handle on the going rate and weed out the extreme outliers.
If a price seems too good to be true, it usually is.
Ask For References
Any decent builder will be able to provide references from previous happy customers.
If they shy away when asked, it’s time to walk away. Contact these references. Inquire about the quality of workmanship, if they stayed within budget and if they would hire them again.
The answers will tell you everything.
Verify Insurance And Credentials
Before you hire a builder, check they have public liability insurance at minimum and the appropriate credentials for the work they’re carrying out.
Ask to see copies and verify. Legitimate tradespeople will not hesitate to provide evidence.
If they start making excuses, start looking elsewhere.
The Red Flags To Look Out For
As important as it is to know what to look for, it’s equally vital to know what to avoid.
Here are the things that should set off alarm bells when looking at local builders:
- Demanding payment upfront: While it’s normal to pay a deposit to hire a builder, reputable builders will never demand full payment before work starts. Scammers often insist on being paid in cash upfront with no receipt.
- No written contract: Contracts protect both you and the builder. Verbal agreements leave you unprotected if things go wrong.
- Vague quotes: A professional quote will break down all costs. If they can’t provide a clear, itemised quote, it’s a sign they are likely to spring nasty surprises later.
- No fixed address: Beware of builders who advertise with no fixed business address. If something goes wrong, you can have a harder time tracking them down.
- Demanding cash only: While some prefer cash, no reputable builder should insist on cash only and refuse to provide invoices. Professional builders keep records of their work.
Questions To Ask Before Hiring
Before signing on the dotted line, make sure you have clear answers to these important questions.
- How long will it take to complete?
- Who will be supervising the work each day?
- What happens if it goes over budget?
- Do you have insurance covering damage and injury?
- Can you provide a detailed written quote?
Getting straight answers on all these key points before hiring a builder will save you a world of headaches later. Don’t skip this step.
Wrapping It Up
Searching for local builders online and finding the right one for your needs doesn’t have to be a nightmare.
By using the right platforms, checking reviews carefully and asking the right questions you can easily source dependable tradespeople for your next project.
Let’s quickly recap:
- Use reputable comparison sites and trade directories
- Always check reviews and ratings
- Always get multiple quotes before making a decision
- Verify insurance and credentials
- Trust your gut if something doesn’t feel right
The internet has made it far easier than ever before to research different builders before hiring them.
Use that to your advantage!
Remember: Spending a little time at the beginning finding the right builder can save you huge amounts of money and stress down the road.
You can also find a builder with the click of a button here.
